The Eric East Memorial Lake and surrounding land is an area of former quarry works and was acquired by the parish council in June 2015 from Lafarge Aggregates Ltd. The land and lake cover an area of approximately 6ha, with the lake approximately 4ha and the land 2ha. Around the lake are several small plantations of native trees, which form a mixed young woodland. The lake has a small island with a few trees, and is host to several different species of birds, including cormorants.
The Lake is managed by the parish council via the Lake Management Committee and is used as an amenity for activities which have a low impact on the local environment, such as walking and bird watching. As private property, access to the lake is restricted to the villagers of Thorpe on the Hill and licence holders. At present there are two licence holders; the 27th Lincoln Scout Group and the Lincoln Featherbenders and Flyfishers.
The lake can be accessed by foot along a grassed track from Eagle Lane, or from the footpath which runs along the railway line beside the Railway Inn. Access by vehicle is through locked gates from Eagle Lane and is currently restricted to licence holders and maintenance vehicles, although the Parish Council is working to set up vehicle access for blue badge holders who live in the village. The track around the lake is grassed and thus naturally uneven in places; please wear suitable footwear.
Currently you may access the lake during daylight hours to:
- Walk;
- Birdwatch;
- Walk with dogs (please keep under control);
- Picnic (please no fires, barbecues or alcohol).
Please take any litter or dog mess off site and dispose of safely.
Cycling is not permitted.
For safety reasons, use of the lake for paddling/boating/swimming etc is not permitted unless specifically licenced. The water is deep and cold.
Fishing is restricted to members of the Lincoln Featherbenders and Flyfishers, and kayaking and overnight camping restricted to the 27th Lincoln Scout Group. When walking around the lake, please beware anglers casting behind them in open areas of bank.